Exterior Rating:

Maneuverability in tight parking spots and the ability to fit more easily into garages is the main benefit of the Acadia’s compact shape—it’s dimensionally smaller than all its rivals in this matchup. Its styling is modern and handsome, if a little sedate, and its low height means it’s easier to get in and out of than some taller rivals.

What’s New for 2018?

A new feature sounds an audible alert to indicate that the tire pressure has reached a satisfactory level when refilling. Fans of cool hues might find the new Blue Steel Metallic paint option appealing. Otherwise, exterior styling is as handsome as the 2017 model.

2017 GMC Acadia

The Acadia looks significantly smaller and much more contemporary than the model it replaces, and that’s because it is. The squared-off grille remains, but the addition of rounded edges means it’s lost some of its angular, macho appearance. In this comparison between the Acadia, Dodge Durango, Ford Explorer, Chevrolet Traverse, and Mazda CX-9, the Acadia is the smallest in every dimension. It’s more than 10 inches shorter in length than the Traverse and almost five inches shorter in height than the Dodge Durango.

Exterior Measurement Comparisons

Exterior Features

Most Acadia trims are slathered with chrome embellishments, but those looking for a more neutral look will find the All Terrain model’s blacked-out trim appealing. Large windows and narrow body pillars increase outward visibility. A power liftgate is standard on all but the SL and SLE-1 trims.

The Best and Others to Consider

The Editors' Rating summarizes a vehicle's overall degree of excellence and is determined by our editors, who evaluate hundreds of vehicles every year and consider numerous factors both objective and subjective.

Editors' Rating

Starting at

$32,460

Putting zoom-zoom charisma into a three-row crossover is no easy feat, but Mazda does it with the CX-9—earning it a 2017 10Best award.

The Editors' Rating summarizes a vehicle's overall degree of excellence and is determined by our editors, who evaluate hundreds of vehicles every year and consider numerous factors both objective and subjective.

Editors' Rating

Starting at

$29,995

The jack-of-all-trades Acadia is ready to tackle the trails—and carpool lanes—with plenty of storage and room for up to seven.

The Editors' Rating summarizes a vehicle's overall degree of excellence and is determined by our editors, who evaluate hundreds of vehicles every year and consider numerous factors both objective and subjective.

Editors' Rating

Starting at

$31,425

VW’s all-new three-row crossover with room for seven is here—and it was worth the wait.